Diagnosing Narcolepsy And Its Treatment
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Did you know going without sleep for 17 hours leads to a decrease in performance of everyday tasks equivalent to a blood alcohol level of 0.05%
Narcolepsy is a serious sleep disorder that affects many people in many different ways. Those with this condition are frequently tired during the day, and they sometimes suddenly fall asleep right in the midst of performing everyday tasks. The previous section discussed the symptoms of narcolepsy and its suspected causes. This section continues with a discussion of how narcolepsy is diagnosed and treatment options.
When constant daytime sleepiness is the problem, and other conditions such as depression, insufficient sleep, fainting and a disorder that causes seizures have been ruled out, narcolepsy is generally suspected, especially if the sleepiness is accompanied by cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone).
Responses to specific sleep-related questions helps narrow down the diagnosis as can spending time at a sleep center where sleeping patterns can be monitored and evaluated. Sleep pattern evaluation is known as multiple sleep latency testing. While at the sleep center, the patient may also undergo a series of tests known as a Polysomnogram. With the help of strategically-paced electrodes, the patient’s heartbeat, eye movements, brain activity and muscle movements can be measured.
Testing the patient’s blood for antigens is sometimes performed, especially when there is a family history of narcolepsy.
Treatment of narcolepsy is generally a combination of behavioral changes, counseling and prescription medication. Behavioral changes are primarily geared towards encouraging better sleeping routines. Moderate exercise done daily will energize during the day and help bring on sleep at night. Getting into the habit of sleeping and waking at specific times every day can help bring routine to sleep. Taking several brief naps during the day can help eliminate fatigue and abrupt bouts of daytime sleeping. Eliminating caffeine, alcohol and nicotine are also advisable.
When it comes to prescription medications, stimulants are effective because they work on the nervous system which helps those with narcolepsy stay awake. Modafinil works in a similar manner, but with this drug, there is no risk of addiction. Antidepressants are an effective way to treat the cataplexy, sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations that some narcolepsy sufferers experience during REM sleep by inhibiting REM sleep. Sodium oxybate also treats these symptoms.
Counseling is also another important treatment component. Those suffering from narcolepsy have trouble themselves dealing with this sleep disorder, but they also can experience negativity from the others with whom they associate. The nature of this sleep disorder is such that it can put a person’s life in danger. As a way of ensuring their own safety, some will cut themselves off from the outside world. They choose not to work, to drive, or to interact socially with others and instead become isolated. Living in this manner is unhealthy and can lead to depression.
Those who don’t fully understand the sleep disorder aren’t always supportive, either. Feelings of doubt, thinking the situation is humorous, mistrust and a lower libido resulting from extreme fatigue can ruin relationships at home and at work.
Counseling or joining a support group is highly recommended because doing so can help those suffering with narcolepsy better cope with their situation.If you think you are suffering from Narcolepsy you might want to confirm it by answering a few questions online by click here. Its free to use and very accurate.